Anova’s research in the spotlight at the Limpopo Health Research Day

Anova was well-represented at the annual Limpopo Health Research Day, organised by the Department of Health, in November. The day was opened by the Limpopo MEC followed by presentations of research conducted in the province. Anova’s Prof Remco Peters, member of the Limpopo Health Research Committee and Head of Research at Anova, explains: “There is a lot of relevant and good quality research that is conducted in the province that people may not be aware off – this research day provides a great opportunity for researchers to showcase their work, disseminate the results in a broad audience and to discuss the implications of their findings for health programme and policy implementation.”

Anova made four contributions to the research day. Ms Nireshni Naidoo presented on her qualitative work with ward-based outreach teams in Mopani District, identifying facilitators and barriers that support improved HIV programme implementation by the community health workers. Mr Nathaniel Muditambi presented the findings of two epidemiological evaluations using routinely available data aimed at improving tuberculosis care in Mopani district: trends in diagnosis of drug-sensitive pulmonary tuberculosis and the changing profile of extrapulmonary tuberculosis associated with the roll-out of antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection. Finally, Mr Sam Khoza presented his evaluation of an innovative, successful model that empowers religious leaders to mobilise men for HIV-testing during campaigns held at their religious congregation.

The day was a great success for Anova as Mr Khoza won the second prize for best oral presentation and Mr Muditambi won the third prize. This highlights the strong research capacity of Anova’s work in Mopani District. Prof Peters comments: “Healthcare in rural settings provides its own challenges and it is important to gain an in-depth understanding of factors that promote or prevent successful healthcare delivery over time. Anova is really building strong research capacity in Mopani District with specific expertise in conducting research in rural settings in relevant clinical, epidemiological and public health topics.”

Anova remains committed to advancing the research agenda in this district, with a strong emphasis on implementation potential of research findings.